Wedding Ceremony Outline

Whether your service is civil or religious, it will likely follow the same general outline. In a previous post we explain the “Type of Wedding Ceremonies” available on Ibiza. Now let’s have a look at the order of events of a typical ceremony:

Assembly: The guests takes their places for the ceremony, to some chilled music.

The Bridal Procession: Here comes the bride… The moment everyone has been waiting for!

The Welcome: Welcome to the beautiful island of Ibiza…

The Introduction: We gather here today to… This introduces everyone to the purpose of the ceremony – a little about the couple and how they met. On Ibiza each celebrant has their own style – take care to choose one that suits you. Some like to start by sharing a reading, a song lyric or a proverb while others may like to start with a spiritual symbol. Hedley Paul, of Blessings on Ibiza, told us he likes to start with a warm welcome for the couple and the guests. He likes to create a comfort zone for people who may be nervous on their first visit to the island, and who have never before attended this style of wedding in the open air.

Readings: You may like to incorporate readings of your choice; these can be a poem, lyrics from a song you love, a Bible passage, or even an amusing anecdote about the couple! Readings are a good way to involve guests and make them feel that they are sharing in the ceremony.

The Vows: Again, you have several options. You may prefer more formal vows, which include a statement of intent. Many couples however prefer more personal vows and promises which they agree with the celebrant and then read/recite to each other. Or, the celebrant can read them phrase by phrase, and you repeat. Some couples write their own vows and promises completely. You may choose to finish your vow exchange with a personal symbolic ritual, such as ‘tying the knot’. Hedley Paul explained to us that there are numerous symbolic rituals, some more known than others, such as: the Unity Candle, the Sand Ceremony, the Loving Cup toast, Celtic Hand-fasting and many more.

The Gift of wedding rings: Couples will present their partner with a ring as a token of their love, and to symbolise the vows and promises they have made. You can be as creative as you like with the words you say as you place the ring.

The Pronouncement: The celebrant makes it official – “I now pronounce you husband and wife”. Followed immediately by…

The Kiss: The moment everyone’s been waiting for – your first kiss as a married couple.

Conclusion and Blessing: Your officiant brings the ceremony to conclusion with a personal blessing and fond farewell.

The Marriage Procession: You take your first steps together as husband and wife… You are now well and truly ‘Mr and Mrs’!

A glass of cava awaits together with all your guests who want to kiss and congratulate you!

Next… The Party!

Always remember you don’t need all the parts mentioned, or you may choose to include more. Just let your celebrant know what you would like to make your dream come true. There are many ways to add touches and detail that make the ceremony personal – this is your day, your ceremony, your wedding, and your marriage.